REVIEW: Man Of Tomorrow #20

Man Of Tomorrow #20 is here and I have to say this series is the gift that keeps on giving! Can you tell I’m getting in the festive spirit?

Before we get into the issue itself, let’s take a look at the cover, which is by interior artist Stephen Bryne. Superman looks great as he soars across Metropolis, sporting a very modern haircut which I love. Bryne also does the colours, which is why it works so well, the artwork perfectly marries up with the colours to create a rather realistic looking Superman. I know it’s something very small but I love how the colour palette of the buildings matches the titles.

Superman - Man of Tomorrow #20 Review - The Aspiring Kryptonian
Photo Credit: DC Entertainment

The story in Man Of Tomorrow #20 is titled ‘The List’ and sees a much loved supporting characterfrom the Superman mythos beg The Daily Planet to write a story for him after he has become the victim of a social media mix-up. We soon see that he isn’t the only victim, as further false claims as to who Superman really is make the rounds online. But the question is, who is behind this and why?

This issue really brings Superman into the now, facing troubles that many people have today. Those troubles I’m referring to are – social media mix-ups and how that fame whether wanted or unwanted can personally effect someone. I have to say I am a fan of Superman facing issues that the everyday person faces, it’s not always about taking on evil supervillains, and I love that writer Josh Trujillo has highlighted that.

Man Of Tomorrow #20 pretty much flips the current storyline that is featured in the Action Comics and Superman titles. In those series we see Superman face the public after revealing his secret identity is Clark Kent. However, in this issue we are witnessing Clark experience what it would be like if he did reveal that truth, without taking the risk.

This story has a lot of heart, but also plenty of laughs throughout. Specifically the moment where Clark begins to interview the people who have been suspected to be Superman. Some of the claims are of course ridiculous, but it is so interesting to see their reaction to being accused. I espeically enjoyed the fact that they don’t know that they are being interviewed by Superman himself.

This whole sequence just goes to show how humble and true Superman/Clark Kent is as a human being. Not only does it show how good he really is deep down, but it also shows the hate that Superman receives and would receive if someone were to know where he personally hangs his cape. I feel this is something that isn’t really explored that often, and Trujillo has handled that perfectly.

I have to say it is fantastic to see classic Superman characters back in action – Bibbo Bibbowski, Cat Grant and The Prankster. I love that this series is giving writers the freedom to bring in some really much loved, and under-used characters. For me it just brings a sense of nostalgia to the issue, which a lot of Superman fans would appreciate.

The artwork and colours in this issue are by Stephen Bryne and I have to say it is incredibly realistic and that really compliments the moral and seriousness of this issue. Superman looks majestic on every page, he looks confident and striking and I belive that is mostly odown to the colours and poses used within the artwork. There is also a perfect nod to the Golden Age and classic Prankster look in the panel that he is introduced in, which was a really nice touch.

Man Of Tomorrow #20 tackles a real issue that real people face each and every day, and closes with the perfect message. A message that is something that I personally stand by – “Anyone could be Superman. If they want to be”.

Haven’t read Man Of Tomorrow #20 yet? You can get it digitally at the Read DC website here. Or if you prefer Comixology, you can get it here (UK), or here (US).

**The above links are affiliates, which mean I will earn commission from any products bought via these links**

Leave a Reply